By: Sydney Smith, BS, BA, TSHA Graduate Student Representative

As a Graduate Student Representative (GSR) for the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (TSHA), I have been reflecting on what serving in this position has done for my budding career as an audiologist. The connections I have built and the knowledge I have gained as a result have been incalculably valuable, and I feel that I have received far more than I have given. My trajectory as an audiologist truly has been altered for the better because I was able to be a GSR. Volunteering is one of the best opportunities for students to get involved in TSHA. However, as I visited many different colleges and National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSLHA) groups across Texas, it seems that there is an overall lack of information about what the GSR role is.

Because the applications for the GSR position are preparing to open, I gathered some of the most common questions I hear about the GSR role to shed some light on what we do and why it matters. While it may seem intimidating, each student member is more than capable of the task. I would encourage anyone who meets the requirements to apply because it is a truly unique and fruitful experience.

Who can apply to be a GSR?
Any speech-language pathology (SLP) student in their first year of graduate school or audiology student in their first or second year of graduate school within the state of Texas can apply! You also should be a student member of TSHA, which is very easy and affordable. You do not need to have a certain background or past involvement with TSHA to be considered for the position. The TSHA Executive Board appreciates diverse experiences and backgrounds when selecting the GSR. For example, I did my undergraduate degree in Utah. I recently moved to Texas and was looking for a community. I was able to show my enthusiasm and dedication to the fields through my application.

What is the GSR application process like?
The application process is simple and quick. It consists of a short questionnaire followed by a two-minute video responding to several questions related to the GSR role. The video portion can be intimidating, and, like many, I am not a big fan of hearing recordings of myself. However, because this role relies upon effective communication skills, the video gives the Executive Board a chance to see how you would be able to reach out to students across Texas. Plan out what you want to say, practice a few times, and you will do just fine!

What does the GSR role entail?
As a GSR, you are a volunteer on the TSHA Executive Board for two years, beginning in January. You act as a liaison between TSHA and students throughout Texas. You represent all students, whether undergraduate, graduate, or PhD; SLP or audiology; online or in-person. You also work as a team with the other GSR to lead the GSR Committee. With our wonderful team, we write for publications like this one, meet the students of the different universities, and help direct students at Convention. The GSR role can include many different tasks depending on the need at the time.

What is the time commitment of the GSR role?
The amount of time required varies greatly throughout the two-year term depending on the task at hand, but it is intentionally manageable for a college student. I have been able to balance classes, clinical experiences, and part-time jobs without feeling overwhelmed or overworked. You do need to be organized and have good time-management skills, but it is not a role that requires more than a graduate student can give. Around Convention, you will be required to attend in-person meetings throughout the week, but all other meetings are virtual.

What are the benefits of becoming a GSR?
There are so many benefits that accompany the GSR role, but the one that has been most important to me and my career is the connection and mentorship with TSHA members. Being on the TSHA Executive Board introduced me to the huge variety of career opportunities in speech-language pathology and audiology. The Executive Board members are not only role models with impressive resumes but also very willing mentors who are happy to offer advice and encouragement. Being a GSR meant building relationships with people who could influence my career for the better. I also knew that my opinion as a student was heard and valued. I got to see which issues are facing our fields and work out real solutions to them. TSHA truly listens to student input!

Apply for this role, whether you think you would be chosen or not. You have a lot to offer, and TSHA needs people like you!